Fuel Cap Seal - Cork

[Iconic]

I just received a cork fuel cap seal from the Classic Center (110.971.02.80). 
One side has a gray coating that wraps around the edges. The other side looks like cork (with some of the gray coming up over the edges).

Does anyone know the purpose of the gray coating?
Which side do I mount exposed (in other words that would contact the fuel filler neck)?
The one I originally removed looked like the cork side exposed, but it is possible the coating had worn off.

Can anyone clear this one up?

[Raymond]

When I bought mine from the dealer, it came with a bare cork seal.  I would think that the point of that would be its compressability.  Without seeing it, I would suggest the cork against the filler neck but how pliable is the coating?.  It may be something they put on simply to prevent the outer edges from tearing like mind did.

[hauser]

I have a new one stashed away with cork visible.  I did not notice any coating on the edges.

[Iconic]

Raymond,
It feels like a rubberized type coating with a slightly rough texture.
But, your statement that when you bought yours (cap and seal together I assume), it came with a cork seal, answers my question.
Because either your seal did not have this coating at all, or it was on the side you could not see and your cork side is exposed.
Therefore, I'm sure it is OK and correct to put the cork side so it is exposed and contacts the filler neck.
Pretty much what I figured, but I love discussing these very small details.
Thank you.

[Raymond]

The cork gasket that came on my cap is just cork.  No kind of coating on either side.  It's easy enough to take on and off.  Either side could have faced the filler neck when it was new.  Now it has a groove in it that seems to help the seal.